Vet Serves in Denver, CO

Dr. Lori Schmalz

Verified Veterinarian

57 reviews

Why I provide at-home pet euthanasia

Becoming a veterinarian was a natural choice for me given my upbringing in which nearly all activities revolved around our animals. I followed the passion that was instilled in me by my family. I performed my first at-home euthanasia in 2007. It was an amazing experience with an owner and pet I had been caring for in clinic. I'll never forget what a beautiful day it was as I watched the owner kiss each of her dog's feet as he fell asleep in his beloved yard. It opened my eyes to how euthanasia could be and should be. Since then I have strived to provide excellent service so my clients and patients have the best possible experience in such a difficult and tender time.

Education

Undergraduate: Bowling Green State University - 1988

Veterinary Medicine: Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine - 1992

Certifications

3

CAETA's CPEV (Certified Peaceful Euthanasia Veterinarian), Human-Animal Bond Certified, Fear Free Certified

 CAETA's CPEV (Certified Peaceful Euthanasia Veterinarian)Human-Animal Bond CertifiedFear Free Certified
  • Based InLittleton, CO
  • Service areasDenver, CO & surrounding areas
  • Work Experience33+ years
  • Animals ServedAll Dogs & Cats
  • Notice Required2 hours

General availability

Thursday10:00 am - 6:30 pm

Availability each week can vary based on demand and scheduling. Please provide a minimum 2 hour advance notice for all bookings.

Services provided

At home pet euthanasia

Dr. Lori Schmalz will help your beloved pet transition peacefully in the comfort of of their home, surrounded by loved ones

Est. CostStarting at $349

Pet cremation

Dr. Lori Schmalz will arrange and handle all of your cremation needs, including careful and loving transportation of your pet to the crematorium through private or communal process handled

Est. CostFrom $149 - $499

Keepsakes

Clay paw prints, wooden urns with personalizations available with ashes returned

Est. CostFrom $18 - $265

Quality of life consult

Schedule a 1-on-1 with a vet over a virtual conference call or at home.

Est. CostStarting at $225

What pet parents are saying

As horrific as this experience is for everyone, I don’t think we would be in nearly as good of shape if it weren’t for Lori. She clearly isn’t doing this for the money, she realized that she can help people get through this experience and we are so thankful and glad to have chosen this option and had the fortune to have her help guide our sweet Cleo and us through this journey. Thank you Lori.

codapet review
5.0
Oct 25 2024 by Julian W.
Review by Julian W.
Dr. Lori Schmalz profile picture

We were facing the agonizing experience pet owners face when our beloved Joey, a mixed breed rescue dog we had for over eight years. He was approximately 15 years old and his heart was giving out on him. I had searched in-home euthanasia on line and found CodaPet. Dr. Lori Schmalz came to our home to help us end Joey's suffering. Dr. Schmalz was calm, caring, and compassionate. She checked Joey's heart, and agreed with our vet that it was time to have Joey peacefully put to sleep. Dr Schmalz made this most difficult decision we make as pet parents as calming and peaceful as possible. We would highly recommend CodaPet, and Dr. Lori Schmalz to everyone who need to help their pet transition peacefully, not only for the pet but also for the loving "parents" of the the pet!

codapet review
5.0
Jun 25 2025 by Bob J.
Review by Bob J.
Dr. Lori Schmalz profile picture

It takes a special kind of person to be able to offer the kind of service Dr. Lori does. She showed immense compassion and allowed us all the time we needed with our little guy. Being at home provided a more peaceful transition for him as he was not stressed. I can't recommend Dr. Lori enough.

codapet review
5.0
Apr 22 2025 by Krista F.
Review by Dr. Lori Schmalz

I have had pets euthanized in the past but my experience with Dr Lori was the best experience I could have had in such sad times with baby, Oscar. She was so gentle, calm, kind and not once did I feel rushed by her. Dr Lori talked to me about Oscar’s life, my favorite memories and I know that his at home, euthanasia, with her, was the best choice for him. I felt so comfortable with handing her over Oscar and knowing he was in the best hands he could be in. Thank you again Dr Lori!

codapet review
5.0
Oct 06 2024 by Alyssa Anaya
Review by Alyssa Anaya
Dr. Lori Schmalz profile picture

What am incredibly difficult decision it is lead your baby to the Rainbow Bridge. My Chloe had turned 14 on Valentine's Day, and although she'd been slowing down for over a year, the beginning of March proved that she was getting markedly worse. After researching home euthanasia services I decided on CodaPet. I was able to schedule the date and time on line which was simple but anything but easy. Dr Lori arrived at the appointed time and was very understanding and respectful. She answered all of our questions and honored all of our wishes. She was gentle and caring and treated our Chloe with the utmost respect. I would absolutely recommend Dr Lori and CodaPet for anyone having to go through this gut wrenching part of being a dog parent.😭

codapet review
5.0
Mar 13 2025 by Gretchen Trefz (GEEmoney)
Review by Gretchen Trefz (GEEmoney)
Dr. Lori Schmalz profile picture

Dr Lori was thorough in her explanation of the full process and how it all would be experienced, by us as well as Freddie. She was calm, thoughtful, patient and kind.

codapet review
5.0
Feb 10 2025 by Danielle V.
Review by Dr. Lori Schmalz